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Genetic mutation     [ Genetics ]
Synonym: Variation.

Dictionary of botanic terminology
 index of names

     
  A genetic mutation is a permanent, alteration in genetic material (DNA) of a cell caused by a change within the genes or chromosomes by copying errors of the genetic material during cell division or by exposure to radiation, chemicals, or viruses, this may be accidental or spontaneous, or intentionally induced.  
     
A mutation may cause a plant to have new character or quality different from that of the parental type (e.g. new colour of the flower, or a different shape, dimension etc..), when such changes occur in the germ cells, they are able to be passed on to the offspring as inherited traits.

See also:  Mutant, Chimera, Somaclonal mutation

     

 


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Holdfast roots  [ Botany  ]

Dictionary of botanic terminology - index of names

 
     
  Some species of climbing plants develop holdfast roots which help to support the vines on trees, walls, and rocks. By forcing their way into minute pores and crevices, they hold the plant firmly in place.  
     
Climbing plants, like the poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), and trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans),  develop holdfast roots which help to support the vines on trees, walls, and rocks. By forcing their way into minute pores and crevices, they hold the plant firmly in place. Usually the Holdfast roots die at the end of the first season, but in some species they are perennial. In the tropics some of the large climbing plants have hold-fast roots by which they attach themselves, and long, cord-like roots that extend downward through the air and may lengthen and branch for several years until they strike the soil and become absorbent roots.

Major references and further lectures:
1) E. N. Transeau “General Botany” Discovery Publishing House, 1994
     

 

 

 

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